Sheila Ellis and the Windy City Blues Band – Roots: A Tribute
One listen to “Good Morning Heartache” is all takes to be completely blown over by Sheila Ellis and the Windy City Blues Band.
On “Good Morning Heartache,” there is a heavy melancholy that can be heard in Ellis’ voice; it is both soulful and passionate, brimming with a piercing ache that echoes midnight loneliness. Mike Hughes’ lovely keyboards provide a blanket of warmth and hope in this knockout blues number.
Track after track, this CD captures the spirit and flavor of the ragtime, jazz, blues, soul, and American standards that shaped Ellis’ musical tastes while growing up in Chicago. Her late mother, a classically trained pianist, was a huge inspiration to her, and one has to think that this album is a much an homage to her mom as well as the original performers of these classics.
A sprightly version of “Moonie the Moocher” showcases Ellis’ versatility. Her vocals are deep and fueled by swagger, a playful rendition that offers a bit of comic relief. Among the most innovative tracks on the record is Ellis’ cover of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Opening with Ruben Ramos’ moody, compelling bass, Ellis’ sultry singing gives the song a mesmerizing slow jam vibe that is utterly refreshing. This is one superb album.
Website: http://www.windycitybluesband.com